Top 10 Security Tips for Virus Prevention June 2003 Hardware and software aren't the only answer to your security problems.  Like so many other things, security begins, and ends with the user.  Here's a run down of security-conscious practices to teach your users and follow yourself. Turn off file sharing on the desktop; if you need some kind of file sharing, apply user-level security.   Don't open email attachments from unknown senders.  Especially files ending in .exe, .com, .vbs, .bat, and .pif.   Stop using .DOC files in Microsoft Word; use Rich Text Format (.RTF) files instead.  RTF files prevent the spread of macro viruses because unlike the .DOC file they do not hold macros.   Use CSV files instead of .XLS files in Microsoft Excel for similar reasons as #3 above.   When possible, use file viewers instead of applications to read your email attachments. This will prevent any macros from executing.   For file compression, use statically compressed ZIP files instead of self-extracting ZIP files.   Change your computer boot up sequence to boot from your hard drive (typically your C drive).  This will prevent a disk left in your floppy drive from infecting your system upon boot up.   Use screen saver password protection.  Many users leave their desks with applications wide open for unauthorized access by anyone passing by.  A password protected screen saver will activate after so many minutes, and require a password to get back into the PC.   Set up Microsoft Office so that it runs macros and Active X controls from only trusted sources.   Do not write passwords on sticky notes.  Passwords cannot protect your system from anything if they are stuck to the side of your monitor! Dynamic Net's We Manage Servers can provide security audits of your Internet ready servers, as well as provide managed firewall, managed IDS, and managed security patch management services. We also partner with companies that can provide similar services for your local area network. Please give us a call toll free at 1-888-887-6727 to discuss your security concerns and needs.